TOMATO RICOTTA CROSTINI

What easier appetizers to make than an amazing Crostini!!! I love making these Crostini's because you can get so creative with them. They are so simple to make and truly no matter what you put on top they are usually fantastic. I have tons of ideas for them but everyone is sure to love the basic Tomato Crostini. It not quite a bruschetta because it is simply the tomatoes in an olive oil and some seasonings. This is what going to Italy teaches you. You do not anything else....simple, simple, simple!! Of course, some great fresh ricotta cheese never hurts!!!

​Grab a great loaf of bread for the Crostinis. Slice the bread on an angle so it will look beautiful and will be alittle longer in length. Lay them all flat on a baking tray.

In a small bowl season some olive oil with salt & pepper. Brush each piece generously. Get it into a 400 degree oven for about 4 to 6 minutes but please keep a close eye on it and take it out when it is as crunchy as you like it!!

Grab some fresh sweet cherry tomatoes. Hopefully you can get a variety of colors just to make it look even more beautiful. Although at Christmas it is nice to just use the red ones and tear up some fresh basil on top. It's all up to you. Cut them in halves or quarters depending on their size and get them into a bowl. The only seasoning needed here is salt & pepper and a very generous drizzle of olive oil. That's it. It really is true here....the simpler....the better!!!!

Now for the whipped Ricotta!! Again....soooooo simple!!! I like to use a food processor here but you can just whip it up if you need to. It just comes out nice and light and smooth in the food processor. Just put a couple of big spoons full in and season with salt & pepper and a pinch of garlic powder. As you start the processor, drizzle in some olive oil until you see a nice light smooth texture. It doesn't take much but thins it out a bit and adds flavor!!​

Grab your beautiful crunchy crostini....

YES!!!! Ready to build them up and make a beautiful platter. Have fun!!

I decided to drizzle some of my basil olive oil on top. I make this by the gallon in my house. Or you could use fresh torn basil with another drizzle of olive oil on top!!

Beautiful!!! An amazing addition for your Holiday Parties. Especially if you make a variety of flavors of crostinis and mix it up! Keep checking back for many more crostini ideas!!